Portlethen
Panthers are a slam dunk

U12 Girls Team. Photo by Jackie Bruce

Published:08:00Saturday 28 February 2015

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The Portlethen Panthers Community Basketball Club are looking for interested youngsters to join them.

Currently the club is operating through a number of venues, including Mackie Academy, Mill O’ Forest Primary School and Stonehaven leisure centre, Lairhillock Primary School and Arduthie Primary and thehave their sights set on expanding their opportunities towards sessions at Mearns Academy.

The Panthers have been highly committed to improving the opportunities and lives of children, developing core life skills, which are essential on, and especially off, the court.

Will Clarke, Basketball Scotland Club development manager North of Scotland, said: “A club with such a positive and welcoming environment, the young players are growing in confidence and skill!

‘‘All the young members at Portlethen are encouraged to play the game in good spirit, respecting their teammates, the opposition and officials as well as themselves.”

As no child is denied their opportunity to participate, the Panthers have continued to improve and grow their operations.

In the past two years, theyhave successfully grown to become the sixth largest basketball club within Scotland, a feat quite remarkable for a nine-year-old sports club.

A spokesperson said: ‘‘The current enrolment totals 146 members, which more than doubles the 2013 enrolment of 71. However, the club always welcomes anyone interested in the sport, hoping to become the next Michael Jordan.

‘‘Through building successful links with Active Schools and Basketball Scotland initiatives, the club has opened the door to hundreds of children who wish to participate.

‘‘The club is working passionately with all age and gender groups, within club and schools sessions, including: Under 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, and senior teams. Furthermore, the Panthers have been vital to improving many sporting facilities, providing new basketballs and hoops to schools that require them.

The Panthers have stated that the growth and development of the club would not be without the dedicated individuals committing their time and effort to such a positive club.

Jackie Bruce, club coach and fundraiser, said: “Portlethen Panthers basketball club is endlessly grateful for all those who have contributed to the club.

‘‘The club would not be the same today if it was not for the dedicated teachers, school staff, parents, and volunteers.